President’s Farewell

Howdy,

Wow, what a year this has been. I did so many things that I never thought I could or would do. Public Speaking…that was not something I ever did. It was certainly a pleasure and an honor to be asked to speak at club’s meetings. I mean really, why would someone want “me” to speak at their meeting. What a compliment that was! I attended more football games and tailgates than ever before, went down on the field during yell practice and during a football game, went to my first basketball game (floor seats), and baseball too. I never dreamed of throwing out the first pitch at a baseball game and there I was…Wow, what a ride!!!

As you have heard me say many times, I never saw myself here and let me tell you, it’s really hard to leave. I have enjoyed this past year so much. Other than my boys…this is my greatest accomplishment. I know many of you have done great things and have prestigious jobs but for me…serving as the President of this amazing organization is the height of my existence. It has been an honor and a privilege, one that I will forever hold dear in my heart.

I want to express my deepest appreciation to each and every one of you on my board who served unselfishly this past year. We are a great team and did amazing things together. Thank you to the Clubs who raised money for your Aggies and were a resource to your Moms. Your support, dedication, and momraderie have made my time in this position truly memorable.

We had an extraordinary year! Together, we had the best Aggie Mom Camp ever, we handed out tons of Goodie Bags, we were asked to bring more Aggie Mom hugs and puppy kisses to campus, this just keeps growing. Aggie Moms are everywhere and now we will leave a legacy that will live on forever with our Endowment.

It is my honor to present to you the total collected for the Federation of Texas A&M University Mother’s Clubs Endowment as of March 31st is $53,900. The A&M Foundation has pledged to double this amount with donors for a total of $107,800! WE DID GOOD!!!!

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this amazing endeavor, to my passion of raising money for scholarships. We don’t want this to stop, we want to continue growing this each year!!! Passing on this leadership position for some is easy, some were counting down the days…it may have been a relief for them, some met harder challenges or they just needed time to rest and get back to their families and normal life. For me it’s a double edge sword, it’s like when you are having the best day ever and you don’t want it to end but you know that new ideas and enthusiasm need to come in. I have every confidence that this board will continue to thrive and make meaningful contributions to this University and our Aggies long after we are gone.

In closing, I want to share with you some words “my” past presidents and officers have said to me…

Don’t underestimate yourself,
you are amazing,
I’m so proud of you,
you make this job look easy,
you are rocking this position, and
I’ll do anything for you…

these are the kind of women you want behind you, beside you and before you. Moms, stay doing what you are doing and I hope you can surround yourself with people who make you feel as honored as I have while being your President.

Thanks and Gig’em!
Roxanne Forrest
Federation President 2024-2025
Federation of Texas A&M University Mothers’ Clubs